With Christmas and summer holidays just around the corner, it’s time to think about being SunSmart – even on cool and cloudy days.

Skin cancer is by far the most common cancer affecting New Zealanders. Around 67,000 New Zealanders are diagnosed and over 400 people die from skin cancer every year. The best way to protect yourself from developing moles and spots that can turn into skin cancer is to avoid too much exposure to the sun.

Being SunSmart is about covering up – with clothing, a broad-spectrum sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. Remember to SLIP, SLOP, SLAP and WRAP.

Slip on a shirt

Slip on a shirt with long sleeves. Fabrics with a tighter weave and darker colours will give you better protection from the sun.

Slip into the shade

Slip into the shade of an umbrella or leafy tree. Plan outdoor activities for early or later in the day when the sun's Ultra Violet (UV) levels are lower.

Slop on sunscreen

Slop on plenty of broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30. Apply 20 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours, especially after being in water or sweating.

Slap on a hat

Slap on a hat with a wide brim or a cap with flaps. More people are sunburnt on the face and neck than any other part of the body.

Wrap on sunglasses

Choose close fitting, wrap around style sunglasses. Not all sunglasses protect against UV radiation so always check the label for the sun protection rating.

The dangers of UV radiation

You can still get sunburnt on a cloudy day. At least 80% of UV radiation can get through light cloud cover, so unprotected skin can still be damaged.

Skin that tans easily is just as likely to be damaged. Any exposure to UV radiation has the potential to cause skin damage. Burning and peeling are signs some damage has already occurred – even if it turns into a tan.

There is no such thing as a safe or healthy tan. It does not improve your body’s ability to protect yourself from the sun. Some exposure to the sun is necessary for the absorption of vitamin D, but most people get enough vitamin D through normal daily activity – even when taking sun protection measures.

The Sun Protection Alert

Sun protection is required from September to April. The time to be SunSmart changes every day. The Sun Protection Alert gives the time period each day when you need to use sun protection. It is available from the start of daylight saving through to April. See the SunSmart website, Metservice, your daily newspaper or download the free app uv2Day to see when sun protection is required in your area.

To find out more about being SunSmart as well as information about skin cancer and early detection, see www.sunsmart.org.nz.

Be safe this summer and keep yourself and those you love safe in the sun. Merry Christmas!